Imaging blood vessel blockages in sickle cell disease
PET Imaging of Vaso-Occlussive Crisis in Sickle Cell Disease
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH · NIH-11123241
This study is looking at how blockages in blood vessels happen in people with sickle cell disease, using special imaging to see what causes these issues, so we can find better ways to help patients who might benefit from a specific treatment.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11123241 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how blood vessel blockages, known as vaso-occlusive crises, occur in patients with sickle cell disease (SCD). By using advanced imaging techniques, specifically positron emission tomography (PET), the study aims to visualize the overexpression of adhesion molecules that contribute to these blockages. The goal is to develop a biomarker that can help identify patients who are likely to benefit from specific treatments, such as the P-selectin blocker crizanlizumab. This approach could lead to more personalized and effective management of SCD.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with sickle cell disease who experience vaso-occlusive crises.
Not a fit: Patients without a diagnosis of sickle cell disease or those who do not experience vaso-occlusive crises may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new way to identify patients who would benefit from targeted therapies, potentially reducing pain episodes and improving quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using imaging to visualize adhesion molecules in humans is novel, similar research in animal models has shown promising results.
Where this research is happening
PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH — PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: NOVELLI, ENRICO M — UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH
- Study coordinator: NOVELLI, ENRICO M
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.